Newcomer Magazine | April/May 2016

Relocation, Lifestyle & Living in Atlanta

April/May 2016

Family-Friendly

ATLANTA

15

Great Spots to Explore With the Kids

Best Neighborhood Parks Six of Metro Atlanta’s Peaceful Retreats Children’s Museum of Atlanta Exhibits That Make Learning Fun Preparing Students for Success How Local Schools Are Helping

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April/May CONTENTS FEATURES Atlanta’s Best Neighborhood Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Atlanta’s Top Family-Friendly Attractions . . . . . . . . . 26

Take a tour of some of the metro area’s prime outdoor parks that are perfect for a little recreation or an afternoon with the kids.

These family-friendly destinations are filled with history, fascinating wildlife and exhilarating activities the whole family can enjoy.

Preparing Students for a Career . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Unique Outdoor Adventures ...... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Learn how some of Georgia’s independent and public schools are helping students to choose and work toward future careers.

From whitewater rafting in the Smoky Mountains to hiking in the Okefenokee Swamp, these outdoor escapes are just a short drive away.

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DEPARTMENTS In Focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 The inside scoop on news, events and happenings around Atlanta.

Top Metro Atlanta Neighborhoods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Our yearly guide to the area’s best cities, towns and suburbs showcases top-notch communities with great amenities for families, young

professionals and empty nesters.

Neighborhood Spotlight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 The Virginia-Highland area is a tree-lined haven of historic homes, casual restaurants, friendly watering holes and trendy boutiques.

School Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Hebron Christian Academy offers a rigorous academic curriculum, while teaching its students the meaning of compassion and making a difference in the world.

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Relocation Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 A comprehensive guide to help you find your way before, during and after your move, including counties, neighborhoods, relocation tips, a map to metro Atlanta and much more.

Upcoming Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Get caught up on the best exhibitions, theatrical productions, special events and live music across the metro area.

Hidden Atlanta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 The newly renovated Children’s Museum of Atlanta offers children hands-on learning while also expanding their imagination.

WANT MORE MORE?

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inFOCUS news bites from around ATLANTA

A TASTE-FUL

Sample delicious food from more than 40 top-notch local restaurants and caterers at the Taste of Newnan. Twice a year, more than 7,000 people flock the historic square in Newnan’s charming downtown to enjoy “tastes” (small food or drink options), as well as rides, games, face-painting and two stages of family-friendly live music. Each taste ranges between 1-10 tickets, with each ticket costing $1.

Taste of Newnan takes place on Thursday, April 14.

For more information, visit tasteofnewnan.com.

A SPECTACULAR SEASON

What do Cabaret, A Christmas Story, and The Little Mermaid have in common?

They’re among the hit shows featured in the 2016/2017 season from Broadway in Atlanta! The full roster kicks off with The Illusionists (Sept. 27-Oct. 2), followed

by Cabaret (Nov. 1-6), A Christmas Story: The Musical (Nov. 29-Dec. 4), The Little Mermaid (Jan. 12-15), The Phantom of the Opera (Feb. 22-March 5), The Bodyguard (March 28-April 2), Matilda the Musical (April 18-23), Riverdance (May 5-7), Finding Neverland (May 16-21), Mamma Mia! (June 13-18) and An American in Paris (Aug. 15-20). For more information, visit broadwayinatlanta.com.

A Student of Merit Lauren Bohling, a student at Holy Spirit Preparatory School in Atlanta, was recently named a National Merit Finalist. This honor is awarded to a limited number of high school seniors each year, based on PSAT scores, exceptional academic performance, extracurricular and volunteer activities and more.

Bohling is now awaiting offers from several topnotch universities. Congratulations, Lauren!

Suwanee Festivals Are Tops!

Besides being a great place to live and raise a family, Suwanee hosts some of the greatest festivals in the country! Don’t take our word for it: The city took home prestigious Kaleidoscope Awards from the Southeast Festivals and Events Association earlier this year. The brand-new Big Cheesy festival won the top prize in the Best New Event category, while the city’s signature Suwanee Fest won a bronze award for Best Children’s Program.

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PHOTO: Joan Marcus

A F FA I R

infocus A Class Act

PHOTO: Courtesy of Atlanta Botanical Garden

Midtown International School, a school for gifted learners in kindergarten through 8th grade, will begin its inaugural high school class this fall! Ninth grade students will have a range of elective classes to choose from including mythology, robotics, figure drawing, cryptology and creative writing. High school students will be expected to participate in a foreign exchange program, as well. At Midtown International, “Students are challenged to collaborate, analyze and think critically without limits,” says Lindsey Hicks, director of student development. The school is accepting applications now. For more information, please visit midtowninternationalschool.com.

A Garden of Delights Twelve years after its first blockbuster showing, the Chihuly in the Garden fine art exhibit returns to the Atlanta Botanical Garden this spring, featuring 21 sculptural installation sites showcasing glass artist Dale Chihuly’s colorful, visually stunning artwork. The new exhibit is double the size of the 2004 show, with two installations created specifically for the Garden. Chihuly in the Garden will run from April 30 through October 30. For more information, please visit atlantabg.org.

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Atlanta’s Best

NEIGHBORHOOD

PARKS

The Perfect Spots to Escape From City Living

Piedmont Park in Midtown Atlanta.

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©2014, Kevin C. Rose/AtlantaPhotos.com

By Alexa Martin

Heritage Green in Sandy Springs.

The metro area is filled with beautiful, expansive parks, from Centennial Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta to sprawling Piedmont Park in Midtown. But it also has plenty of smaller spots for when you just want to spend an intimate afternoon playing catch with the kids or strolling through nature. With that in mind, we’ve spotlighted six neighborhood parks where you can enjoy great recreational amenities while taking a break from the everyday world.

HERITAGE GREEN This 4-acre park is the heart of Sandy Springs, a bustling city of more than 93,000 residents just north of Atlanta. Heritage Green serves as the city’s official gathering place, and is the home of the natural spring for which the town is named.

Heritage Green is also home to the Heritage Sandy Springs Museum, dedicated to preserving the area’s history. The museum hosts the permanent Sandy Springs: Land and People exhibit, and through August 2016, hosts Sandy Springs: Then and Now, which shows photos and artistic renderings of well-known locations.

The Sandy Springs Society Entertainment Lawn is a terraced, 14,000-square-foot expanse of lush greenspace located within the park. The lawn hosts as many as 1,000 people for concerts that take place on a semicircular stage. The an-

nual “Rhythm & Brews” live music event will be held here April 2, with performances by Chelsea Shag, Gareth Asher and the Earthlings, and Sam Burchfield. The lawn is also available for theatrical performances, weddings and a variety of other special events.

The park itself radiates a rustic, wooded feel, full of benches and shaded areas ideal for relaxing on a summer afternoon. This place can fill up fast, especially on weekends, so be prepared to share the space with other families.

COBB PARK AND KIDSCAPE VILLAGE

Located at the intersection of Buford Highway and Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, this 10-acre park is known as “Suwanee’s front yard.” Visitors walk, jog and bicycle along a mile of paved surfaces dotted with interlinking pathways and sidewalks, They also enjoy sitting back on park benches to chat with friends or simply take in the beautiful scenery.

Of particular interest to families is Big Splash, the largest interactive fountain in Gwinnett County. Adults and children splash and

This 5.8-acre park in Smyrna, just west of the city’s downtown area, is one of the most popular spots in metro Atlanta among parents of small children, perfect for a morning or afternoon of fun-filled activity. Kidscape Village boasts swing sets, slides and a small train for the younger tykes, and a large playground with climbing structures, spider web and other diversions for slightly older kids. There’s also a baseball field that can be used for a variety of sports.

TOWN CENTER PARK

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TOP: (Left) TKT KT KTKT KT KT; (Right) TK TKT KTK TK TKT KT KT KTKTK T T. INSET: TK TKT KTK TKT KTK TK. Sims Lake Park

frolic among 43 jets that shoot up to 1,400 gallons of water per minute. The fountain is generally open seven days a week between April and October.

Town Center Park is Suwanee’s premier spot for special events, including Food Truck Fridays, Movies Under the Stars, the Arts in the Park festival and the annual Suwanee Day celebration. Among its amenities is a terraced amphitheater that can host up to 1,000 for outdoor concerts and other events.

HISTORIC FOURTH WARD PARK

PIEDMONT PARK

Opened in 2011 in Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward neighborhood, Historic Fourth Ward Park stands as a vibrant symbol of the area’s revitalization over the last decade. Designed as a focal point for the rapidly evolving community, this 17-acre park located near the Atlanta BeltLine—a multi-use trail designed to form a ring of parks and green spaces around the city—is anchored by a picturesque lake, surrounded by rolling lawns filled with native plants and plenty of paved pathways for walking and biking.

Smaller visitors will enjoy the children’s playgrounds, with slides, swings, rock walls, climbing areas and other features. There’s also the Splash Pad, with jets of water streaming from the ground and overhead, open from May 1 through Oct. 1. The park also features a public skate park, the first in Atlanta.

Every city has its own treasured greenspace; for Atlanta, it’s Piedmont Park. On any given day, Midtown’s Piedmont Park is filled with joggers, people-watchers, dog walkers, sunbathers and Frisbee players—and on especially beautiful summer days, the best seat in the city is a patch of grass on its great lawns. Aside from its walking and jogging paths, another big draw is Lake Clara Meer, a stocked fishing lake. The park is also the location of many festivals and concerts throughout the year, including the Atlanta Dogwood Festival, the Atlanta Jazz Festival, Music Midtown and many more.

SIMS LAKE PARK This moderately sized (62 acres) general-use park has become a major draw for nature lovers in Gwinnett County. Located just a few miles from downtown Suwanee, Sims Lake Park al-

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most feels like a gorgeous preserve worlds away from city life. Dog owners walk with their furry friends, walkers and bikers enjoy the 1.2-mile trail, and everyone can take in the beautiful view of the 7-acre lake that gives the park its name.

A playground and picnic pavilion situated near the entrance offer children a perfect spot to blow off some steam while the parents relax, and a pair of 2-acre meadows provide great opportunities for tossing a Frisbee or laying out in the sun. And an abundance of scenic backdrops attracts artists, photographers and those who simply enjoy being surrounded by the natural beauty.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Heritage Green heritagesandysprings.org Cobb Park and Kidscape Village smyrnavinings.com/cobb-park-andkidscape-village Town Center Park suwanee.com/cityservices.recreationparks.php Historic Fourth Ward Park h4wpc.com Piedmont Park piedmontpark.org Sims Lake Park suwanee.com/cityservices.recreationparks.php

PHOTOS: (Top Right) Bill Mahan; (Center) Piedmont Park Conservancy.

Historic Fourth Ward Park

Johns Creek Montessori sChool of GeorGia

Sowing the seeds of organic learning Multi-age, vibrant learning communities with uninterrupted blocks of work time Montessori certified teacher in every classroom Hands-on, multi-sensory learning materials Nutritious lunch, organic milk, and healthy snacks offered daily 6450 East Johns Crossing • Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-814-8001 • www.JCMSOG.org

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TOP ATLANTA

NEIGHBORHOODS 10 of the Metro Area’s Best Places to Call Home

By Anna Bentley

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TOP LEFT: Avalon is a mixed use development in Alpharetta.

BOTTOM LEFT: A Historic Home in College Park RIGHT: Oglethorpe University located in Brookhaven.

T

PHOTOS: (Top Right) Courtesy of the City of Alpharetta

he decision to move to a large metropolitan city like Atlanta is only the beginning of your relocation process. After all, there’s much more to Atlanta than the city itself. There are numerous diverse and distinct neighborhoods inside the city limits, and many more outside—each with its own advantages and appeal. The good news is that Atlanta offers something for everyone: high-quality education, affordable housing, family-friendly events and tight-knit communities. We’ve highlighted some of Atlanta’s top cities, towns and neighborhoods for families, young professionals and empty nesters. Whatever you’re looking for, Atlanta has many perfect spots to choose from.

ALPHARETTA Nicknamed the “Technology City of the South,” Alpharetta is a northern suburb best known for its excellent schools and strong technology sector. It’s an affluent city with a recently revamped historic downtown and unique attractions, including Georgia’s only American Girl Boutique and Bistro; Topgolf Alpharetta, a golf entertainment complex; and the recently opened Avalon, a pedestrian-friendly mixed-use development with high-end shopping options. Plus, the Veri-

zon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park hosts legendary bands and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra every year. Perfect For: Families, Empty Nesters, Young Professionals. For More Info: alpharetta.ga.us.

BROOKHAVEN One of Atlanta’s newest cities, Brookhaven officially incorporated in 2012. This intown city stretches from just northeast of downtown Atlanta to its northern suburbs, and in its 12 square miles are an incredibly diverse mix of residents and amenities. In Brookhaven, there are pre-war estates; newer, thriving mixeduse developments; a country club and Robert Trent Jones-designed golf club; plenty of parks; and Buford Highway, Atlanta’s most culturally diverse corridor, famed for its variety of ethnic cuisine. Perfect For: Families, Empty Nesters, Young Professionals. For More Info: brookhavenga.gov.

COLLEGE PARK College Park truly presents the best of both worlds for the upward professional who enjoys a little quiet time. Its easy proximity to down-

town Atlanta and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport offers all the convenience of big-city living, balanced with a relaxing, small-town feel. The airport and the Georgia International Convention Center make this an increasingly desirable destination for business travelers, as well. There’s affordable housing in the Historic College Park neighborhood, and there are numerous attractive dining options.

The main campus of Woodward Academy, the largest independent day school in the continental United States, is located here, as well.

Perfect For: Families, Young Professionals. For More Info: collegeparkga.com.

DULUTH Voted one of Georgia’s best affordable suburbs by Businessweek magazine, Duluth sports a small-town feel thanks to its family-friendly Town Green and historic downtown district, filled with charming specialty shops. The Town Green, with its amphitheater and fountain, hosts community events throughout the year, such as the annual Duluth Fall Festival each September. Duluth is also home to the Atlanta Gladiators (a minor league ice hockey team) and the Gwinnett Center, which often hosts ma-

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jor festivals, concerts and events. The Hudgens Center for the Arts is another highlight, offering classes for adults and children in pottery, drawing, painting and more. Perfect For: Families, Empty Nesters. For More Info: duluthga.net.

GAINESVILLE Located about an hour northeast of Atlanta, Gainesville is a top pick for active families and nature lovers alike. Lake Lanier, on the western and northern edges of town, offers plenty of swimming, fishing and camping options, and the Blue Ridge Mountains just north of town are another perfect option for hiking or camping.

The city’s Interactive Neighborhood for Kids and Quinlan Visual Arts Center are just a few of its family-friendly attractions.

Gainesville has also been recognized by the AARP as one of its top 10 affordable places to retire.

Retirees can tee up at the Chattahoochee Golf Club, take a swim at the Francis Meadows Aquatic Center, and enjoy an abundance of recreational opportunities.

Perfect For: Families, Empty Nesters. For More Info: gainesville.org.

Gainesville has been recognized by the AARP as one of its top 10 affordable places to retire.

LILBURN With an estimated population of around 12,500, this Gwinnett County city is one of the smaller ones on this list, but that makes a big difference when it comes to its sense of smalltown community. Top attractions include the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, a traditional Hindu stone temple; Lilburn City Park; and the Camp Creek Greenway, a 4.2-mile paved and gravel trail. Lilburn has experienced substantial growth in recent years, and plans are underway to build a new city hall/library complex and revitalize its downtown corridor. Perfect For: Families, Empty Nesters. For More Info: cityoflilburn.com.

MARIETTA Anchored by the charming Marietta Square, this northwestern suburb is one of the largest on our list—it’s about 23 square miles, with a population exceeding 56,000. Still, the city maintains a sense of community with family-friendly events, including theatrical performances from the Atlanta Lyric Theatre and Marietta Players, among others, and plenty of festivals throughout the year. There’s also plenty of history in Marietta—just off the square are the Marietta Museum of History and the Marietta Gone With the Wind Museum. And Kennesaw Mountain

TOP: Main Street in downtown Gainesville. BOTTOM: Peachtree City’s The Fred hosts outdoor concerts.

National Battlefield Park, an important Civil War site, is only a short drive away. Perfect For: Families, Young Professionals. For More Info: www.mariettaga.gov.

PEACHTREE CITY This master-planned community, developed into five distinct villages, has the feel of a vacation resort. Golf carts are a primary means of transportation here, zipping along 100 miles of multi-use paths that are also great for strolling and bicycling. The area’s lake, golf courses, playgrounds, nature areas and sports fields offer numerous recreational opportunities. The Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater hosts outdoor concerts, and the city’s regional airport, Falcon Field, hosts an air show each year. The city is

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also a magnet for film and television productions, and boasts a Southern Hollywood Film Tour that visits popular filming locations. Perfect For: Families, Empty Nesters. For More Info: peachtree-city.org.

SANDY SPRINGS Directly north of Atlanta, Sandy Springs is one of Atlanta’s biggest employment and high-end shopping destinations. The city is in the process of developing a new City Center to serve as the heart of the community. Though still in its planning stages, the City Center will include office space, green space, residential and retail space, and a performing arts center to build on its arts focus. The city hosts the Sandy Springs Artsapalooza fine arts festival each spring, and the

to an interactive fountain and amphitheater.

The city has also focused on its award-winning network of multiuse trails and parks, each with its own distinct personality. Perfect For: Families, Empty Nesters, Young Professionals. For More Info: suwanee.com.

MORE COMMUNITIES WE LOVE Fayetteville: The Fayette County seat boasts a stellar school system and Pinewood Atlanta Studios, a major film-production facility.

Recognized by Forbes as a “Top 25 Suburb for Retirement.”

Hapeville: This charming city boasts a smalltown feel and is the home of the Dwarf House, the first Chick-fil-A restaurant.

Midtown: The heart of Atlanta is home to such jewels as the Fox Theatre, the Woodruff Arts Center, and the city’s most prominent green space, Piedmont Park.

Suwanee’s magnificent Town Center.

popular Sandy Springs Festival, complete with its popular pet parade, in the fall. Perfect For: Families, Empty Nesters, Young Professionals.

For More Info: sandyspringsga.org.

SUWANEE

Smyrna: Attractive neighborhoods, a thriving downtown and plentiful green space highlight this Cobb County city.

Woodstock: This Cherokee County suburb offers public beaches, a historic downtown and proximity to Lake Allatoona.

PHOTO: Mike Howard

Suwanee has been recognized as a stellar place

to raise a family by the likes of Family Circle magazine and Kiplinger.com for years. A big part of Suwanee’s family appeal is its mixeduse Town Center, envisioned by city leaders in 2002 as the city’s “front yard.” Today, the Town Center boasts plenty of shopping, dining and entertainment options for all ages, in addition

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neighborhood

spotlight Virginia-Highland

by Lindsay Oberst

A

pedestrian-friendly neighborhood just east of Midtown’s Piedmont Park, the VirginiaHighland area attracts a mix of young professionals and families who stroll its tree-lined sidewalks, enjoying a charming array of casual restaurants, friendly watering holes, trendy shops and boutiques.

The Warren City Club

Housing

Culinary Treats

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Virginia-Highland is known for its bungalows, Tudors and homes from the early 1900s. The median home price is $593,400, up 4.7% from the last year. Apartment communities include the Highland View Apartments (404-881-6680), which features huge, open kitchens and large balconies with double French doors. The Greenwood Lofts (404876-6432) offers loft-style studio and one- and two-bedroom condominium homes with 10- to 20-foot ceilings, stainless steel appliances and granite countertops.

Some of the city’s best food can be found here.

Murphy’s (404-872-0904) is a popular destination for weekend brunch. The Warren City Club (404-789-3999) is also a prized brunch spot and offers one of the best burgers in town.

Atkins Park Tavern (404-876-7249), the oldest continuously licensed tavern in the city, is a neighborhood institution praised for its modern comfort food.

Doc Chey’s Noodle House (404-8880777) is a favorite spot for noodle bowls and stir-fry. The Highland Tap (404-875-3673) is known for prime rib, seafood and steaks. Noche (404-815-9155) offers creative small plates and tasty margaritas. Alon’s Bakery (404-872-6000) has been offering delectable baked goods and a gourmet market for 20 years. Want dessert? Try Paolo’s Gelato (404-607-0055) for homemade gelato, marzipan and other treats.

Local Treasures

Blind Willies

The Inside Track In 2011, Virginia-Highland was voted “Best Overall Neighborhood” by readers of Creative Loafing, and was named “Favorite Neighborhood Overall” by Atlanta Magazine.

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PHOTOS: (Top) Matt Odom; (Bottom) Jimmy Maynard

Greenwood Lofts

The area is known for its diverse shopping.

Mitzi’s Corner (404-875-9600) showcases women’s clothing and accessories. Ooh La La Fashion Boutique (404-872-9700) specializes in jewelry and eclectic fashion. 310 Rosemont (404-249-5326) features luxury clothing for men and women.

Orme Park is a small gem of green space dotted with play areas for kids. Henry & June (470-355-9751) carries various coffees and locally-made pastries, as well as clothing and accessories for men and women. Savory Spice (678-515-3999) offers spices and seasonings, gifts for foodies and a variety of kitchenware.

Murphy’s

Arts and Entertainment The neighborhood’s annual Summerfest is an arts and music festival staged each June. Blind Willie’s (404-873-2583) is home to some of the city’s finest blues artists. Limerick Junction (404-874-7147) is the city’s oldest Irish pub and a haven for local folk musicians. For live rockband karaoke, head to 10 High, which is located below Dark Horse Tavern (404-873-3607). N

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EDUC AT I O N

I N S I G H T

for a areer PREPARING STUDENTS

How Georgia’s Schools Are Creating Career-Ready Graduates

By Anna Bentley

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For many high school students, deciding on a possible career can be a daunting decision. The options seem almost endless, and it can be hard to successfully translate interests into viable career options. Luckily, Georgia’s public and independent schools are dedicated to helping students wade the sometimes murky waters of career preparation. By implementing special programs, offering enriching co-curricular activities and developing personal connections with students, Georgia’s schools are committed to getting students on the path to a bright future.

Providing Individualized Guidance One of the biggest advantages of independent schools is their smaller size, which allows counselors and advisors to make personal connections with students, helping to inform conver-

sations about possible careers, college majors and college selections.

“We talk to our girls, not just the college counselor, but all of our faculty, about what they care about, what their interests are, what

they’re passionate about and what they’re curious about,” says Joan King, academic dean at Atlanta Girls’ School, an independent girls’ school for grades 6 through 12 in northwest Atlanta. “Then, working with the college counselor, we don’t just try to find the best name or brand, but we seek to match students with strong programs that meet their interests.”

Small school sizes also help advance the counseling process. At Pace Academy, for instance, preparations can begin as early as ninth and 10th grade, with informational meetings for parents and students. And at Atlanta Girls’ School, the college counseling process begins in 10th grade with small group meetings with college representatives.

Students are encouraged to explore academic interests both in and outside the classroom, by either doubling up on core competencies like math, science or English or exploring interests through electives or co-curricular activities.

At Atlanta Girls’ School, weekly assemblies can host guest speakers ranging from lawyers to dog sled racers so students can learn more about careers they may or may not have considered. In addition, the school’s 70-hour internship program—a requirement for both sopho-

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more and junior years—places students with budding interests in relevant for-profit and nonprofit businesses across Atlanta, allowing them to explore different careers and workplace environments.

Similarly, “Pace Academy offers students opportunities to learn about business principles and specific academic interests like history, science and art,” says Director of College Counseling Gavin Bradley. Through the Isdell Center for Global Leadership, students can choose from international study tours with specific academic focuses, such as studying water systems and water issues in Africa, or the art and culture of India. And the Entrepreneurship Challenge lets students develop business skills like innovation, collaboration and leadership.

Offering Programs for Success Providing individualized options for students is a priority in Georgia’s public schools, as well.

The Georgia Department of Education’s Career,

Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) program offers students specialized instruction in more than 120 subjects, letting them explore careers before graduation—and even earn technical certifications, in some cases.

In this program, pathways are arranged in broad career clusters (for example, students can follow a graphic design pathway in the arts,

THE PIEDMONT SCHOOL OF ATLANTA Serving bright children K-9 with autism and related disorders

Integrating

Academic, Social, and Life Skills

Combining

Individual Goals, Differentiated and Community-Based Instruction

Providing

Regular Education Curriculum Georgia Standards by Master’s Level, certified teachers 1330 N. Druid Hills Rd. Atlanta, GA 30319 404-382-8200 www.tpsoa.org

22 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

A/V technology and communications cluster). Each pathway has its own sequence of three specialized courses, followed by an endof-pathway assessment. Students can pick from more than 120 pathways in 17 clusters, including finance; IT; transportation, distribution and logistics; education and training; and agriculture, food and natural resources.

“It’s not required that they choose one of the 17 clusters.

They can also enter a pathway in fine arts, world languages or one of the academic core content areas of math, science, social studies or English/language arts,” says Pamela Smith, interim director for the CTAE Division. “It’s not a graduation requirement to select a pathway, but it’s strongly encouraged so that our students will have the opportunity to explore and experiment with different career opportunities.”

Though students pick their pathways in eighth grade, the program starts early, with career awareness lessons beginning in the first grade.

Later in middle school, students can take a career

Be involved in your child’s education and maintain an open dialogue about their goals. development inventory to help familiarize them with a variety of careers that might interest them before developing their personal graduation plan.

“By the eighth grade, these students at least have an idea of the direction they would like to go,” says Emily Spann, CTAE program manager. “They can change of course during high school. But they will at least have something that they can look at so they can better know what courses they need to take in grades nine, 10, 11 and 12.”

What Parents Can Do The path might seem clear for students who have solid ideas about their futures. But what

about those who don’t know what they want to do?

For those students, “a college that has a wide range of strong suits is a good idea,” says King. “Perhaps a liberal arts college. Maybe even a gap year is a good idea for that girl. It’s definitely not one-size-fits-all.”

Indecision can also derail plans for students who might have thought they had everything figured out. “Adolescent development in these last years of high school is still going on at a very high rate,” says Bradley. “They’re changing quite a bit, and their opinions are changing. We need to give them permission to change their minds as they evolve and develop.”

Whether your child has a clear plan for what he or she wants to do, or is still struggling to figure it out, your involvement is crucial. Be involved in their education and maintain an open dialogue about their goals. Together with specialized school programs and guidance, strong parental support can help students set and achieve career goals that perfectly fit their skills and interests.

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schoolSPOTLIGHT

Hebron Christian Academy Molding Christian Leaders of Tomorrow

By Jackson Reeves

T

o ensure that it succeeds in its stated mission to help parents “to prepare their children spiritually, academically, physically and socially to become disciples of Jesus Christ,” Hebron Christian Academy (HCA) offers a rigorous college-preparatory academic curriculum, while also teaching its students the meaning of compassion and inspiring them to make a difference in the world. The goal is to nurture in its young men and women the best traits of the school’s mascot, the lion, shaping them to become strong, noble and morally upstanding leaders of tomorrow.

“America is richly populated with good Christian schools,” says headmaster Timothy Hillen. “Few Christian schools, however, can accurately be classified as ‘great.’ We believe that achieving a level of greatness is a necessary and worthy pursuit.”

Toward that end, HCA has outlined seven essential characteristics of great Christian schools, meant to guide the actions not only of students but also school staff. By emphasizing a strong academic program, physical growth and development, spiritual growth and maturity, social interactions and opportunities, caring and committed employees, sound business practices and comprehensive governance and administrative initiatives, Hillen believes HCA can meet its challenge to develop well-educated and socially responsible young people.

“This plan is student-friendly, parent-friendly, employee-friendly, schoolfriendly and Christ-honoring,” Hillen says. “In other words, it is a comprehensive Christian school plan targeting the needs of all HCA constituencies.”

Located northeast of Atlanta in the picturesque suburban setting of Dacula, Hebron Christian Academy was founded by Hebron Baptist Church in 1999, with classes beginning that same year. In its nearly 17-year

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history, the school has continued to grow, more than tripling the number of students. And as the student body grows, the campus—spread across two locations, one for elementary students and the other for middle- and high-schoolers—follows suit. In 2008, Hebron’s high school campus debuted its science and technology building, a $3.2-million expansion.

Accredited by both the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), Hebron Christian Academy offers courses in all major subjects. It also ensures that experience with the arts is an integral part of its education experience for all its grades by regularly offering music, visual arts and performing arts outlets.

The school also recently launched an international program, with five students from China matriculating at the academy while taking up residence with the families of their fellow pupils.

With a goal of building character through competition, Hebron incorporates a strong athletic program that reinforces the school’s mission, fielding varsity sports teams in baseball, basketball, football, soccer, swimming, track and more.

And of course, HCA maintains a strong Christian focus, with chapel services, a relevant Bible curriculum, and mission trips to many states and foreign countries. It’s all part of the school’s commitment to creating students in the classroom, on the playing field, and in the arts. N

The Specifics Grades: K-12 Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 Tuition: $6,925-$8,675 Location: Dacula

Contact: 775 Dacula Road

Dacula, GA 30019 770-963-9250 Web: www.hebronlions.org

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Family Fun in

ATLANTA 15 Fantastic Attractions for All Ages

By Kevin Forest Moreau 26 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

ATLANTA HISTORY CENTER

Atlanta History Center’s Civil War Exhibit. BELOW: Center for Puppetry Arts.

Dedicated to highlighting and celebrating Atlanta’s rich past, this 33-acre complex in the Buckhead neighborhood allows kids and adults alike to step back in time and tour the Swan House, an elegant 1928 mansion. Visitors can also experience a glimpse of life during the Civil War at the Smith Family Farm, where they can interact with characters from the period and participate in daily chores. The permanent exhibit Turning Point: The American Civil War features more than 1,500 artifacts, including cannons, flags and other items guaranteed to capture your child’s imagination. 404-8144000, atlantahistorycenter.com.

CENTER FOR PUPPETRY ARTS Learn about puppets from all over the world and create your own puppet at this entertaining and educational attraction in Midtown Atlanta.

The Center also hosts special exhibits as well as performances and film screenings for families, teens and adults (current shows include Beauty and the Beast, April 7 to May 22). After undergoing an expansion that doubled its size, the Center now features a new museum housing the world’s largest collection of Jim Henson memorabilia, including puppets of Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy. 404-873-3391, puppet.org.

PHOTOS: (Top) Courtesy Atlanta History Center; (Bottom) Courtesy Center for Puppetry Arts

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF ATLANTA

By now, you might already know that metro Atlanta is filled with great neighborhoods, restaurants, entertainment venues and other draws for adults. But it also has plenty to offer for families with children, including attractions filled with history, fascinating wildlife and exhilarating activities. Now that spring’s here, it’s the perfect time to pack everyone into the car and explore your new city’s family-friendly destinations. Here are fifteen that everyone can enjoy.

Located in downtown Atlanta, the recently renovated Children’s Museum of Atlanta encourages creative, imaginative play with interactive exhibits. Watch your children climb through the layers of the Earth, catch colorful fish, create art on a giant paint wall, climb on a John Deere tractor and more. The museum’s current special exhibit, Mystery of the Mayan Medallion (running through May 31), lets children become archeologists for the day and find a priceless jade relic buried in a temple. 404-659-5437, childrensmuseumatlanta.org.

GEORGIA AQUARIUM Home to more than several hundred species from around the world, this downtown Atlanta landmark offers a truly immersive experience.

You don’t have to be a budding marine biologist to be amazed by the Georgia Aquarium’s impressive collection of whale sharks, beluga whales, manta rays, penguins and many more aquatic creatures—more than 10,000 in all, inhabiting more than 10 million gallons of fresh and marine water. Its newest exhibit, Pier 225, features California sea lions in an intimate setting, allowing visitors to watch their behavior and learn more about them in their natural habitat. 404-581-4000, georgiaaquarium.org. u www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 27

Top: (Left) The Children’s Museum of Atlanta; (Right) A Beluga Whale at Georgia Aquarium; (Right) Fernbank Museum of Natural History.

HIT THE BEACH Atlanta might be a five-hour drive to the beaches of South Carolina, Florida or coastal Georgia, but there’s a much closer option: the shores of area lakes, including Lake Lanier and Lake Allatoona. Both options feature all the perks of the beach—swimming, sunbathing and sandy sports—without all the tedious hours on the road. And others, like Robin Lake Beach at Callaway Gardens and Lake Lanier Islands at Lake Lanier, offer additional amenities and resortstyle lodging. There’s certainly a nearby option no matter what side of the city you live in; visit allatoonalake.org and discoverlakelanier.com for options north of Atlanta and callawaygardens.com if you’re south of the city.

INTERACTIVE NEIGHBORHOOD FOR KIDS This attraction in Gainesville, Ga., about an hour north of Atlanta, is perfect for children ages 2-12. Kids can explore part of an actual airplane, learn about money and banking, clamber through a family playhouse, shop in a grocery store and pretend to be a doctor, dentist, policeman or hair stylist. Visitors can also play with parts from an actual train, climb aboard a real 1927 fire truck, romp around in an indoor park and participate in many other fun, interactive activities. 770-536-1900, inkfun.org.

LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTER Located on the top floor of Phipps Plaza in the Buckhead neighborhood, LEGOLAND Discovery Center features fifteen different attractions

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for children ages 3-10. Kids can learn how LEGO bricks are made at the Factory Tour, destroy ogres in the Kingdom Quest Laser Ride, create their own race cars and learn advanced building tips and tricks at the Master Building Academy. Recently renovated, the newest addition to the destination is Pirate Adventure Island, where children can create their own LEGO pirate ship, set off air cannons and discover hidden sea creatures. 404-848-9252, legolanddiscoverycenter.com.

SIX FLAGS OVER GEORGIA Featuring everything from pulse-pounding thrill rides to kid-friendly entertainers, this amusement park is on every Atlanta kid’s summertime to-do list. Your little ones can take a

PHOTOS: (Top Left) Jeff Roffman; (Bottom) Fernbank Museum of Natural History / © Bryant Upchurch

FERNBANK MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY From the bronze dinosaurs that greet you on your way inside to eye-popping documentaries screened in its IMAX theater, the Fernbank Museum is a fun mix of education and entertainment. Walk beneath skeletons of two of the world’s largest dinosaurs in the Great Hall’s Giants of the Mesozoic exhibit, and explore the history of the planet and the state via A Walk Through Time in Georgia. Catch the special exhibit Wild Music, featuring the sounds of whales, bullfrogs and songbirds, through July 31. Or watch the film National Parks Adventure, which explores Yellowstone, the Everglades and the Redwoods, screening through June 16. 404929-6300, fernbankmuseum.org.

PHOTO: (Bottom Left) Jeff Roffman

LEFT: (Top) Interactive Neighborhood for Kids; (Bottom) Children’s Museum of Atlanta. RIGHT: Dare Devil Dive Coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia.

tour of the park on a steam-engine locomotive, indulge in good-natured fun in the bumper cars or take a ride in a log down a mountain river.

Don’t forget the Dare Devil Dive Coaster and exciting roller coasters including Goliath, Georgia Cyclone, Great American Scream Machine and Superman: Ultimate Flight. A brand-new water park, Hurricane Harbor offers a zero-gravity wave slide along with a giant, interactive children’s area. 770-739-3400, sixflags.com/overgeorgia.

STONE MOUNTAIN PARK One of Georgia’s most popular attractions, this beautiful 3,200-acre park offers a non-stop array of events and activities. Climb (or take a cable car) to the top of the mountain, brave

the SkyHike adventure course or cool off while navigating the rope bridges and tunnels of the Geyser Towers. Go camping, fishing or hiking on the property, enjoy a train ride around the park, or play a little golf while the kids enjoy some live entertainment. Then cap it all off with the famous Lasershow Spectacular. 770-4985690, stonemountainpark.com.

THE ATLANTA BRAVES Atlanta is home to the Atlanta Braves, its own Major League Baseball team, and Turner Field, located in the heart of Atlanta, is the current home of the Braves. Travel to the Ted, as Turner Field is affectionately called, to cheer on the team. Come early to watch batting practice, stay after the game on Fridays for the free Fri-

day Night Fireworks show and check the team’s website for special themed days, giveaways, postgame concerts and more. 404-522-7630, braves.com.

THE COOLER Ice-skating is a great way to have fun (and get a little exercise) while keeping cool. And there’s no better place to lace up and hit the ice than the Cooler, also known as the Alpharetta Family Skate Center. One of the state’s foremost skating and family recreation facilities, the Cooler features two ice arenas and a large roller-skating rink, and it offers classes in figure-skating, ice-skating and ice hockey—as well as other options. In addition, it’s open all year long!

770-649-6600, coolerathletics.com.u

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LEFT: (Top) Stone Mountain Park; (Bottom) Giant bottles at World of Coca-Cola. RIGHT: (Top) Turner Field; (Bottom) Zoo Atlanta.

There are few better places to enjoy our national pastime than this vibrant ballpark, which offers plenty to see and do in addition to the game itself, including special concerts and promotional events offered throughout the year. The Braves Museum and Hall of Fame provides an educational look at the Atlanta Braves’ history, and tours of Turner Field give visitors a behindthe-scenes look at life in a major league park.

Children will enjoy testing their pitching and hitting prowess in Scouts Alley. 404-522-7630, braves.com.

WORLD OF COCA-COLA Atlanta, as you may know, is the home of CocaCola, and this nearly 100,000 square foot museum and shrine, located downtown near the Georgia Aquarium, pays tribute to the world-famous soft drink with interactive exhibits, more than 1,200 pieces of Coke memorabilia, a 4-D theater, and a vault said to contain the drink’s

secret formula. There’s also a bottling line, an exhibit of Coke artwork, and Coca-Cola Freestyle, which offers more than 100 Coke flavors from around the world which you can sample– or mix together and create your own flavors.

404-676-5151, worldofcoca-cola.com.

ZOO ATLANTA Sprawling over nearly 40 acres in the Grant Park neighborhood of Atlanta, Zoo Atlanta is home to more than 1,000 animals representing more than 200 species. The Zoo boasts the nation’s largest population of great apes, and it is one of only four in the country to house giant pandas (there are currently seven living at the zoo, including a pair of twins born in July 2013). Other famous residents include giraffes, lions, meerkats, black rhinos, parakeets and a Komodo dragon. The zoo also features rides, an indoor play area and educational sleepovers, among several other programs. 404-624-5600, zooatlanta.org.

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FAMILY FUN DESTINATIONS

Lookout Mountain (Chattanooga, TN): Featuring three top-rated, world-famous natural attractions—including America’s deepest cave and largest underground waterfall accessible to the public—Lookout Mountain is the perfect getaway for extraordinary experiences.

800-825-8366, lookoutmountain.com.

Biltmore Estate (Asheville, NC): As the largest private home in the country, this 8,000-acre property sits in the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers visitors tours of the historic locale built by George Vanderbilt along with sweeping vistas from its spacious gardens. 800-411-3812, biltmore.com.

Amelia Island (Amelia Island, FL): Enjoy one of the Sunshine State’s best-kept secrets with this beach town nuzzled up to the Georgia border at the Atlantic coast that boasts an array of lovingly preserved Southern Victorian homes. 904-277-0717, ameliaisland.com.

PHOTOS: (Top Left) Courtesy Stone Mountain Park, Stone Mountain, Ga.; (Top Right and Bottom Left) ©2014, Kevin C. Rose/ AtlantaPhotos.com; (Bottom Right) Courtesy of Zoo Atlanta.

TURNER FIELD

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OU TSID E

ATL A NTA

Exploring the

GREAT OUTDOORS

Thrilling Adventures Just a Short Drive Away Now that you’ve completed the adventure of moving to your new city, you’re probably ready for an all-new adventure that’s less stressful, but just as rewarding.

Fortunately, there are numerous adventure-filled vacations within an easy drive of Atlanta.

From whitewater rafting in the Smokies to hiking in the Okefenokee Swamp, exciting leisure opportunities abound.

By Tony Jenkins and Susan Flowers

32 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

Upcountry, South Carolina Looking for a fun, adventure-filled trip a little more than two hours northeast of Atlanta? Try “The Upcountry”—a region of 10 counties in the northwest corner of South Carolina, which not only has enough things to offer for a great day trip but also enough things to keep you entertained for a long weekend.

Those seeking the perfect view will enjoy scoping out the area’s more than 120 waterfalls. For some family-friendly options, look to easily accessible destinations like Reedy River Falls and Wildcat Falls. If you’re eager for a bigger challenge, check out Rainbow Falls and Raven Cliff Falls, which are perfect for serious hikers.

Once you’ve seen the waterfalls, move on to the Andrew Pickens District of the Sumter National Forest. At 85,000 acres, it’s ripe for exploration, whether you choose to do so on foot, bike, or horseback. Then, hit the water again, but this time, for rafting, canoeing, kayaking or trout fishing. The Chattooga National Wild & Scenic River is perfect for such activities. For a more leisurely afternoon, relax on one of the area’s three major lakes: Hartwell, Keowee and Jocassee. Take some time for boating, fishing and SCUBA diving for the ultimate work-week reset.

Sevierville, Tennessee

vierville CVB. Courtesy of Se

LEFT PAGE: Sevierville is minutes away from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. RIGHT PAGE: (Top) Trout Fishing in Upcountry, SC.; (Middle) Rafting in Upcountry, SC.; (Bottom) Forbidden Caverns, Sevierville, TN.

Known as the birthplace of Dolly Parton, Sevierville is a picturesque getaway less than four hours from Atlanta. Sevierville offers many activities that will please both adrenaline junkies and nature enthusiasts. Start with fishing, camping and canoeing at Douglas Lake. Then check out the views of sparkling formations, grottos and a crystal-clear stream in the Forbidden Caverns. Next, take a rafting tour through the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. And that’s just the beginning.

The town is only minutes away from America’s most visited national park: the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is free to enter.

It’s a hiker’s heaven with more than 800 miles of maintained trails. Serious www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 33

Huntsville, Alabama is known for the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.

hikers will find plenty of options for difficult allday or overnight adventures, while those seeking a calmer experience will love the quick and easy options. Whichever approach, the park has a universal appeal: sights that are best experienced rather than described.

For even more thrills, visit one of several zip-lining companies in Sevierville. They offer you breathtaking mountain views as you zip along, hundreds of feet above the trees and streams. Feel free to challenge your family and friends on side-by-side dual racing zip lines, or cap off the day with some night zipping under the stars. After a full weekend, visitors will easily see that Sevierville is more than just the birthplace of Dolly Parton.

Huntsville, Alabama Huntsville, Alabama—less than four hours northwest of Atlanta—may be known for the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, but that’s not the only at34 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

traction for those seeking an out-of-this world adventure. Whether you want to kayak along the Flint River or explore underground caverns, Huntsville has the right getaway for you.

Just minutes from downtown, the Land Trust of North Alabama offers more than 30 miles of public trails for hiking, biking, bird watching or picnicking at one of five mountains: Wade Mountain, Rainbow Mountain, Harvest Square, Blevins Gap and Monte Sano.

The Monte Sano State Park has 20 miles of hiking trails and 14 miles of biking trails, including the Mountain Mist and McKay Hollow trails, which are geared toward serious hikers and bikers who don’t mind adventuring amongst exotic plants and wildlife. You may encounter a rattlesnake, copperhead or king snake as well. The Hays Nature Preserve and the Goldsmith Schiffman Wildlife Sanctuary offer more than 10 miles of trails perfect for hiking or mountain biking.

PHOTOS: (Top) Courtesy of Huntsville, Alabama CVB; (Bottom Left) Courtesy of U.S. Space & Rocket Center; (Bottom Right) Courtesy of Historic Banning Mills.

TOP: Huntsville, Alabama.

BOTTOM: (Left) U.S. Space & Rocket Center; (Right) The Lodge at Historic Banning Mills.

For a change of pace, there’s Cathedral Caverns. Just a 20-minute drive from Huntsville, it offers a breathtaking look at nature’s wonders, with 14 acres of underground caverns for amateur spelunkers to explore. Among the sights are the 45foot Goliath stalagmite column, the Frozen Waterfall and the 126-foot entrance.

Other fun activities include nature trails, a climbing wall and gemstone mining. Tent camping facilities are available within Cathedral Caverns State Park as well.

Historic Banning Mills

tern Zip Line Tour, where you’ll go down a line 200 feet above Snake Creek Gorge.

Finally, get your thrills in with Screaming Eagle and zip down a half-mile-long line from the highest timber pole tower in the world.

After you’ve gotten all your kicks from the resort’s zip-line offerings, unwind with a spa treatment at the resort.

Spend the rest of the day at the pool or playing horseshoes. You can also drive ten minutes over to Oak Mountain Golf Club to get in some relaxing tee time. For dinner, grab a picnic basket for the family or enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner on the terrace overlooking the gorge with your special someone.

PHOTO: Courtesy of Historic Banning Mills

For a great getaway in-state, try ziplining at Historic Banning Mills just an hour southwest of Atlanta. This destination is home to the world’s longest zipline canopy tour according to Guinness Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge World Records: Screaming Eagle. Come With more than 400,000 acres of exotic for a weekend visit, and stay in a bedwildlife and lush vegetation, the Okefenoand-breakfast-style lodging amidst Snake kee National Wildlife Refuge, only a fiveHistoric Banning Mills offers several different zip line tours.

Creek Gorge while surrounded by beautihour drive from Atlanta, is a nature-lover’s ful scenery. Before you get your adrenaline pumping, explore the old ghost and adventure-lover’s paradise. town of Banning, Georgia, and the old ruins of the town’s paper mill.

Meaning “land that trembles when you walk on it,” the Okefenokee Start with a simple, hour-long forest tour, perfect for families with was established in 1936 to conserve the Okefenokee Swamp, which is young children. They’ll get to glide over woodlands from the safety of thought to be 6,000 to 8,000 years old and is teeming with amphibians, nine zip-lines. Then, move on to a bigger challenge with the Flight Pat- fish, mammals, reptiles and birds—oh, and a few larger animals as well. u

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Prairie. You can also arrange for an extended or overnight excursion.

Hikers can enjoy many different trails. Take in nature’s wonders as you observe birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat, and enjoy plant life that surrounds you at every step. Walk the Upland Discovery Trail and take advantage of your chance to photograph a colony of red-cockaded woodpeckers, or immerse yourself in the forests of the 4-mile Longleaf Pine Interpretive Trail. You may also enjoy cycling on the swamp’s paved roads, although bicycles are not permitted on hiking trails.

Fishermen can enjoy the refuge throughout the year—but you may have to compete with an alligator for your catch! The refuge features shallow water prairies, lakes and ponds, and fishing from boats, kayaks and canoes is permitted in various areas.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Historic Banning Mills Chesser Prairie at Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge.

770-843-9149 • historicbanningmills.com

Huntsville, Alabama Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge 912-496-7836 • fws.gov/refuge/okefenokee

Sevierville, Tennessee 888-738-4378 • visitsevierville.com

Upcountry, South Carolina 800-849-4766 • upcountrysc.com

PHOTO: Art Webster, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Paddle your canoe through the swamp and you might glimpse an alligator or a bear.

Of course, wilderness canoeing is an experience best reserved for those who can take on a challenge, so come prepared for strenuous paddling or pushing canoes at some points. Visitors may also be subjected to extreme temperatures and precipitation. Canoers can camp at any of the designated campsites located throughout the refuge.

If you’re looking for something less taxing, guided boat tours are available, including a 90-minute trip through the Suwannee Canal and Chesser

800-843-0468 • huntsville.org

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38 40 47

GETTING STARTED

HERE MARTA

TO

THERE

Vehicle Emission Inspection Vehicles dating from 1985 through 2006 model year must be checked each year for emission standard compliance. Visit a statedesignated inspection station for the service.

Call 800-449-2471 or visit www.cleanairforce.com.

Mass Transit

One way to avoid long commutes is to take advantage of the city’s local transit system, Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA). Offering both train and bus service, MARTA is a convenient way to travel to downtown or the airport. The fee for traveling one way is $2.00 including transfers, and payment is even easier now with the Breeze limited-use and extendeduse cards. Weekly and monthly passes can be obtained at discounted rates. For fares, schedule and route information call 404848-5000 or visit www.itsmarta.com.

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Driving Tips

MARTA Rail Service

The Georgia DOT provides daily updates of road work, road closings and traffic delays, which are helpful when commuting.

Updates can be obtained by calling (toll free) 1-877-694-2511, by dialing 511, or by visiting www.georgianavigator.com.

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COUNTY INFORMATION EDUCATION public schools Cherokee County Schools Board of Education 770-479-1871

Cherokee County QUICK INFO

Elementary Schools 22 Middle Schools 7 Intermediate Schools 1 High Schools 6 Alternative 1 Evening 1 Per-pupil expenditures $8,578 School & bus information: 770-720-2112

County www.cherokeega.com Neighborhoods www.canton-georgia.com www.woodstockga.gov www.cityofballground.com www.hollyspringsga.us www.cityofwaleska.com Schools www.cherokee.k12.ga.us

pRivate schools Visit our Web site at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.

UTILITIES & CONTACTS HOME SERVICES Cobb Energy (Electricity, Security, Telephone and Satellite TV) 770-429-2222 Electricity 706-276-2362 Amicalola EMC Cobb EMC 770-429-2100 Georgia Power 888-660-5890 770-887-2363

Sawnee EMC

Gas Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit www.newcomeratlanta.com.

Telephone AT&T 888-436-8638 ETC Communications 678-454-1212 TDS Telecom-Nelson 770-735-2000 Ball Ground Windstream 800-501-1754 Water Cherokee County Water Authority City of Ball Ground City of Canton City of Waleska

770-479-1813 770-735-2123 770-704-1500 770-479-2912

City of Woodstock

770-926-8852

Cable TV Charter Communications 888-438-2427 Comcast 404-266-2278 ETC Communications

678-454-1212

Hospitals Northside Hospital-Cherokee 770-720-5100 Wellstar Kennestone Hospital 770-793-5000

Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development

Avg. SAT Scores Cherokee Co. 1560 Georgia 1460 National 1509

Median household income: $63,518 Median age of residents: 34 Population: 210,529 Sales tax: 6% Chamber of Commerce Cherokee County 770-345-0400, www.cherokeechamber.com Property Taxes Per $1,000 of assessed value is: Unincorporated Cherokee County, $26.80; Incorporated Cherokee County, $24.06.

Tax Commissioner: 678-493-6400

Cagle Dairy Farm, Canton

Located northwest of Atlanta, Cherokee County gets its name from the original inhabitants of the area, the Cherokee Indians. The county seat, then called Etowah, was established in 1833 and renamed Canton in 1834. Today, the city is enjoying its greatest economic boom in its history since more than $60 million was invested in residential and commercial development in 1998.

Despite developing its own industrial base, Cherokee County remains idyllic and serene. Farming, especially poultry processing, remains a leading industry.

Canton and the neighboring community of Woodstock have seen tremendous growth as subdivisions crop up to accommodate newcomers.

In fact, nearly 60 percent of the county’s population are commuters. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median value of homes in 2006 was $194,900.

Homes for well over $1 million can be purchased in such neighborhoods as Bradshaw Farms, Bridge Mill and Town Lake Hills.

Interstate 575 and Ga. Highway 92 traverse the county, affording residents easy access to Atlanta and the nearby attractions of Town Center Mall, Lake Allatoona and the North Georgia Mountains. Other great places to live,

40 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

Ridge Mountains and along the banks of the Etowah River, Canton is prime location for development.

Woodstock

work and play in Cherokee County include the cities of Ball Ground, Holly Springs and Waleska.

Neighborhoods

Canton Canton was incorporated in 1833 and renamed in 1834 at the request of two founding fathers who had visions that the town might become a silk center similar to what existed in Canton, China. Canton did become famous for its “Canton Denim,” known worldwide for the high-quality denim produced by Canton Cotton Mills.

Today, Canton is attracting new industry and residents. As a result, the city is re-investing in its downtown.

As part of its “Streetscapes” program, downtown Canton will be restored to its historic look and features a newly designed theater on Main Street.

Located at the foothills of the Blue

Twelve miles south of Canton, Woodstock is the fastest-growing city in Cherokee County. With a growth rate of 70 percent over the past 10 years, the city has doubled in size. Residents enjoy easy access to Interstate 575 and Ga. Highway 92, allowing short commutes to Cobb and Fulton counties.

While affording convenience to big-city attractions, Woodstock still maintains its small-town appeal.

Buildings dating back to 1879 characterize the downtown, where antique and other specialty shops are located.

Various golf courses are located in Woodstock, including Arnold Palmer’s Eagle Watch, a course with wooded countryside views that is considered to be one of the top places to play in Atlanta. The 11,860-acre Lake Allatoona provides additional recreation. Woodstock is also convenient to more than 13 state parks. N For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com

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COUNTY INFORMATION EDUCATION

pUBLIC schools Cobb County Schools Board of Education 770-426-3300 Elementary Schools 71 25 Middle Schools High Schools 16 Magnet 6 Charter 6 Special 4 Per-pupil expenditures $8,816 770-422-3500

Elementary Schools 7 Middle Schools 1 1 High Schools Sixth-Grade 1 Magnet 1 Per-pupil expenditures $9,061 School and bus information 678-594-8000 Avg. SAT Scores

Cobb Co. 1534 Marietta City 1514 Georgia 1460 National 1509 pRivate schools Visit our Web site at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.

UTILITIES & CONTACTS HOME SERVICES Cobb Energy (Electricity, Security, Telephone and Satellite TV) 770-429-2222 ELECTRICITY Acworth Power 770-974-5233 770-429-2100 Cobb EMC Georgia Power 888-660-5890 770-942-6576 GreyStone Power Corp.

Marietta Power/ Columbia Energy 770-794-5100 GAS Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated.

For a list of providers for this county, visit www.newcomeratlanta.com.

TELEPHONE AT&T 888-436-8638 Comcast 404-266-2278 MCI Worldcom 770-541-7235 Outside Georgia 800-356-3094 WATER Austell Water Cobb County Water Systems Marietta Water Powder Springs Water Smyrna Water

770-944-4300 770-423-1000 770-794-5100 770-943-8000 770-319-5338

CABLE TV Bellsouth Multimedia 770-360-5000 Charter Communications 888-438-2427 Comcast 404-266-2278 HOSPITALS Emory Adventist Hospital 770-434-0710 WellStar Cobb Hospital 770-732-4000 WellStar Kennestone Hospital 770-793-5000 WellStar Windy Hill Hospital 770-644-1000

White Water

Cobb County

Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development

Marietta City Schools Board of Education

Neighborhoods

Kennesaw

One of Family Circle magaCobb County came into zine’s “Ten Best Towns for Famibeing in 1832 when the state lies,” Kennesaw takes pride in its redistributed land once part small-town atmosphere and boasts County www.cobbcountyga.gov of the Cherokee Nation. abundant parks and green space, Neighborhoods www.austellga.org Named after Thomas exceptional recreational programs www.mariettaga.gov Welch Cobb, the county and top-notch schools, includ www.ci.smyrna.ga.us experienced a devastating ing Kennesaw State University. www.kennesaw-ga.gov setback during the Civil www.cityofpowdersprings.org Kennesaw’s Historic Downtown War when most of it was features shopping, dining and atSchools www.cobb.k12.ga.us destroyed during the Battle tractions such as the Smithsonian www.marietta-city.org at Kennesaw Mountain. affiliated Southern Museum of Median household income: $65,123 Today, Cobb County, Civil War and Locomotive History, Median age of residents: 35 located north of Fulton the Smith-Gilbert Arboretum and Population: 698,158 County, is one of the fastnearby Kennesaw Mountain NaSales tax: 6% est-growing counties in the tional Battlefield Park.

Chamber of Commerce nation. With a diverse ecoCobb County nomic base that includes 770-980-2000, www.cobbchamber.org Rapidly defining what’s new jobs in the service, retail, Property Taxes and progressive in quality of life aerospace and technology The property tax is $28.75 per $1,000 of assessed and citizen services, Smyrna sectors, Cobb County ofvalue. Tax Commissioner: 770-980-2000 delivers an amazing sense of style fers a quality of life unsurand love of life. The new Market passed in the Southeast. More than $770 million has been spent luxury apartments and condos near Village, home to fabulous restaurants, on transportation improvements in Cumberland Mall, secluded sub- bars and upscale shops and services, recent years, allowing residents easy divisions in East Cobb and horse is the final piece of a master plan for access to Atlanta and the commer- ranches in the northwest corner success. Call it “Main Street USA” or cial districts of Vinings Overlook, of the county. The small towns of “Disneyland,” but don’t overlook its Cumberland Parkway and the pres- Marietta, Vinings, Smyrna and Aus- charm and ability to offer the best in tigious “Platinum Triangle” in the tell still retain their Southern charm fresh, trendy lifestyle options. N Galleria area. amidst urban settings. According to For more counties and neighborhood A variety of housing options the Census Bureau, the median valinformation, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com exist in Cobb County, including ue of homes in 2006 was $205,200.

42 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

QUICK INFO

Smyrna

COUNTY INFORMATION

DeKalb County

Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development

Located east of Fulton County, DeKalb County is the second largest county in the state with a population of about 705,000.

DeKalb County contributes to Atlanta’s status as an “ international city” with its businesses and residences representing more than 30 different countries and 120 languages.

Neighborhoods

Decatur The county seat of DeKalb, Decatur is a charming historic city known for its recreation and pedestrian-friendly streets. Its beating heart

The square is also home to some beautiful public art, and hosts numerous festivals, town celebrations and neighborhood events.

Decatur is home to a diverse population, attracting young professionals, families, retirees and bright young college students— the city is home to the prestigious women’s university Agnes Scott College, and world-renowned Emory University is just outside the city limits. Older brick homes, smaller bungalows and cottage homes distinguish the community and the surrounding neighborhoods of Avondale Estates, Oakhurst and Candler Park.

Dunwoody

Emory University

QUICK INFO

DeKalb County prosCounty www.co.dekalb.ga.us pers in part due to its exNeighborhoods www.decaturga.com cellent transportation sys www.druidhills.org tem. Five major road ar- www.dunwoodyga.org teries traverse the county: www.candlerpark.org Interstates 20, 85, 285, www.stonemountaincity.org 675 and US Highway 78. www.dekalb.k12.ga.us Schools Hartsfield-Jackson Inter www.csdecatur.net national Airport is only six miles from DeKalb’s Median household income: $51,753 southern border and the Median age of residents: 35 DeKalb Peachtree Air- Population: 739,956 Sales tax: 7% port, a general aviation field, is reported to be Chamber of Commerce DeKalb County the second busiest air404-378-8000, www.dekalbchamber.org port in Georgia. DeKalb County is also a leader in Property Taxes the biomedical commu- The property tax rate is $41.50 per $1,000 for unincorporated DeKalb County. Tax Commissioner: nity with The Center for 404-298-4000 Disease Control headis the Courthouse Square, which quartered there.

The median value of homes in features an eclectic mix of store2006, according to the Census Bu- front boutiques and shops, restaurants and entertainment options. reau, was $190,100.

In the northern corner of the county is Dunwoody, a popular neighborhood among established professionals and young, upwardly mobile professionals raising families.

It is often referred to as the “tennis set” neighborhood because of its numerous recreational outlets that include Lynwood Park and Recreation Center, as well as Blackburn Park and Tennis Center. Cultural attractions include the Dunwoody Nature Center and the Spruill Gallery.

A variety of housing is available in Dunwoody, including apartments, townhomes, ranch-style homes, bungalows and mini-mansions with manicured lawns. Nearby Perimeter Mall provides shopping, dining and family entertainment.

With its proximity to all major expressways and North Fulton’s booming business opportunities, Dunwoody is a hotspot for families. N For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com

EDUCATION pUBLIC schools DeKalb County Schools Board of Education 678-676-1200 Elementary Schools 83 Middle Schools 20 High Schools 20 Per-pupil expenditures $9,896 School & bus information 678-676-1300 City Schools of Decatur Board of Education

404-370-4400

Early Learning 1 Elementary Schools 4 Middle Schools 1 High Schools 1 Per-pupil expenditures $13,444 School & bus information 404-370-8737 Avg. SAT Scores DeKalb Co. 1334 City of Decatur 1577 Georgia 1460 National 1509 pRivate schools Visit our Web site at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.

UTILITIES & CONTACTS Electricity Georgia Power

404-395-7611

Snapping Shoals EMC

770-786-3484

Walton EMC

770-972-2917

Gas Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated.

For a list of providers for this county, visit www.newcomeratlanta.com.

Telephone AT&T

888-436-8638

Bellsouth

404-780-2355 Water

DeKalb County Water System 770-621-7200 Cable TV Charter Communication

877-728-3121

Comcast Cablevision

404-266-2278

Hospitals Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston

404-785-6000

DeKalb Medical Center

404-501-1000

Emory University Hospital

404-712-2000

Piedmont Hospital and Medical Care Center

404-605-5000

www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 43

COUNTY INFORMATION EDUCATION

pUBLIC schools Fulton County Schools Board of Education 404-768-3600 Elementary Schools 58 Middle Schools 19 High Schools 17 Charter 8 Centers 4 Per-pupil expenditures $9,561 404-802-3500

Elementary Schools 52 14 Middle Schools High Schools 20 Charter 15 Alternative 6 Per-pupil expenditures: $13,069 School & bus information: 404-802-5500 Avg. SAT Scores Fulton Co. 1567 Georgia 1452 National 1498 pRivate schools Visit our Web site at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.

UTILITIES & CONTACTS Electricity City of College Park 404-669-3759 City of East Point 404-270-7010 City of Fairburn 770-964-3481 City of Palmetto 770-463-3322 Georgia Power 888-660-5890 Gas Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated.

For a list of providers for this county, visit www.newcomeratlanta.com.

Telephone AT&T 866-271-9724 Comcast 404-266-2278

Fulton County

Water

404-730-6830

Cable TV Charter Communications 887-906-9121 Comcast 404-266-2278 Hospitals Atlanta Medical Center 404-265-4000 Atlanta VA Medical Center 404-321-6111 Center for the Visually Impaired 404-875-9011 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Hughes Spalding 404-785-9500 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite 404-785-5252 Emory University Hospital Midtown 404-778-2000 Grady Memorial Hospital 404-606-1000 North Fulton Regional Hospital 770-751-2500 Northside Hospital 404-851-8000 Piedmont Hospital 404-605-5000 Shepherd Center 404-352-2020 St. Joseph’s Hospital 678-843-7001

Fulton County serves as the center of the metro Atlanta area.

With 90 percent of the city of Atlanta, including the state’s capital building, located within its borders, it sits at the hub of the area’s financial, transportation, retail, communications and cultural services. A number of Fortune 500 companies, including the Coca-Cola Company, Delta Air Lines and UPS, are headquartered here.

More than 970,000 people live in Fulton County, drawn by its convenience to Interstates 75, 85 and 285 and Georgia State Route 400.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median value of homes in the county is $246,200.

Fulton is home to many of Atlanta’s signature neighborhoods, including its bustling downtown district. Older neighborhoods like Inman Park, Grant Park, Candler Park and Virginia-Highland offer affordable housing, pedestrianfriendly layouts and plentiful parks and recreational options.

Midtown Atlanta is the heart of Atlanta’s cultural scene, with the Woodruff Arts Center (home to the Alliance Theatre, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the High Museum of Art) and the historic Fox Theatre, as well as a host of art galleries. Midtown’s Piedmont Park, the city’s most popular green space, hosts many outdoor festivals and concerts.

filled with high-rises, upscale restaurants, the Governor’s Mansion, the historic Swan House and the Atlanta History Center.

Buckhead is also an entertainment and dining hotspot. With more than 200 restaurants, bars shops and luxury hotels, the Buckhead area is a magnet for young professionals.

Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development.

Atlanta Public Schools Board of Education

Fulton County

Downtown Atlanta skyline

QUICK INFO

Neighborhoods

Buckhead

Buckhead is “where old money lives and new money parties,” according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. With its mixture of mansions and uniquely styled homes, Buckhead is a favorite among architecture and history buffs. Convenient to Georgia 400, Interstate 85 and MARTA, it’s

44 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

Alpharetta

One of metro Atlanta’s most vibrant and affluent cities, Alpharetta is home to approximately 62,000 residents, according to 2012 U.S. Census Bureau estimates. They're drawn to its mix of big-city vitality and small-town charm, as well as its many amenities and affordable housing options. Homes range Median household income: $57,664 from large apartment comMedian age of residents: 34 munities to elegant subPopulation: 977,773 Sales tax: 7%, Atlanta City: 8% divisions, with a median value of $324,300.

Chamber of Commerce Alpharetta offers a vaGreater North Fulton 770-993-8806, www.gnfcc.com riety of parks and outdoor Metro Atlanta attractions, including the 404-880-9000, www.metroatlantachamber.com Big Creek Greenway trail.

South Fulton Shoppers flock to North 770-964-1984, www.southfultonchamber.com Point Mall for a multiProperty Taxes tude of retail options. The The property tax rate per $1,000 of assessed value is: city’s historic downtown $44.12 for the City of Atlanta; $29.13 for incorporated area boasts an appealing Fulton County; $41.60 for unincorporated Fulton town square surrounded County; $33.75 for Johns Creek; $33.86 for Sandy by restaurants and shops.

Springs. Tax Commissioner: 404-613-6100 The Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre hosts big-name The neighborhood also offers numerconcerts each summer. N ous antique stores, art galleries and For more counties and neighborhood mall shopping at Lenox Square and information, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com Phipps Plaza..

County www.co.fulton.ga.us Neighborhoods www.alpharetta.ga.us www.buckhead.net www.virginiahighland.com www.eastpointcity.org www.collegeparkga.com www.hapeville.org www.roswellgov.com www.sandyspringsga.org Schools www.fultonschools.org www.atlanta.k12.ga.us

www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 45

COUNTY INFORMATION pUBLIC schools Gwinnett County Schools Board of Education: 678-301-6000 Elementary Schools 72 Middle Schools 24 High Schools 20 Alternative 6 Open Campus 1 Per-pupil expenditures: $8,338 City Schools of Buford Board of Education:

770-945-5035

Elementary Schools 1 Middle Schools 1 High Schools 1 Academy 1 Per-pupil expenditures $10,198 Avg. SAT Scores Gwinnett Co. 1526 City of Buford 1455 Georgia 1460 National 1509 pRivate schools Visit our Web site at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.

UTILITIES & CONTACTS Electricity 770-945-6761 City of Buford City of Lawrenceville 770-963-2414 770-448-2122 City of Norcross Georgia Power 404-395-7611 Jackson EMC 770-963-6166 770-887-2363 Sawnee EMC 770-972-2917 Walton EMC Gas Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated.

For a list of providers for this county, visit www.newcomeratlanta.com.

AT&T

Telephone 888-436-8638

Water Buford 770-889-4600 Dacula 770-963-7451 678-376-6800 Gwinnett City Water Lawrenceville 770-963-2414 770-448-2122 Norcross Cable TV Bellsouth Multimedia 770-360-5000 Charter Communications

888-438-2427

Comcast 404-266-2278 Hospitals Emory Eastside Medical Center

770-736-2400

Joan Glancy Memorial Hospital 678-584-6800 Gwinnett Medical Center

678-312-4321

Gwinnett Women’s Pavilion 678-312-4770 Summit Ridge Center 770-822-2200 for Behavorial Health

Gwinnett County

Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development

EDUCATION

for any railroad aficionado.

Some of Duluth’s neighborhoods include Edgewater Estates, Sweet Bottom Plantation, and Riverbrooke.

Affluent estates with antebellum architecture can be found as well as apartment communities, older brick, ranch-style homes and subdivisions.

Duluth still retains some of its original small-town businesses, along with chain businesses, many accessible by Ga. 400 and I-85.

Suwanee

Suwanee is named after the Shawnee Indians who settled here in the latter part of the 18th Originally part of Georgia’s century. Following the official Native American territory, Gwinnett founding of the city in 1837, County was created by the State Suwanee became a railroad stop Legislature in 1818 and named after along the Southern Railroad route. It Button Gwinnett, the third signer of remained a small country town well the Declaration of Independence and into the ’70s when construction of a former state governor.

I-85 and U.S. 23 brought easy access While the county was to the region. once largely rural with small Since then, Suwanee County www.co.gwinnett.ga.us towns, country stores, farms has experienced tremenNeighborhoods www.cityofbuford.com and forests, today it is home to dous growth, from 2,000 www.duluthga.net more than 245 international residents in 1990 to www.snellville.org companies and 450 high-tech more than 10,000 today. www.suwanee.com firms. With an average of 260 To help manage growth, Schools www.bufordcityschools.org new professional and industrial the city has developed www.gwinnett.k12.ga.us companies relocating to the a comprehensive developMedian household income: $64,005 county each year, attracting more ment plan that promotes Median age of residents: 33 than 6,000 new jobs, Gwinnett pedestrian-oriented dePopulation: 789,499 County remains in the top 10 velopment and mixedSales tax: 6% ranking for growth nationwide. use zoning. Designated Chamber of Commerce The county supports many a Tree City USA for more Gwinnett County cultural events, restaurants than 10 years, the city 770-232-3000, www.gwinnettchamber.org and shopping opportunities, is committed to preserving Property Taxes including the Mall of Georgia.

27 percent of its land as The property tax in unincorporated Gwinnett Gwinnett County remains green space.

County is $31.77 per $1,000 of assessed value. affordable for renters and firstSuch foresight has Tax Commissioner: 770-822-8800. time home buyers, many of whom allowed Suwanee to retain find homes in the communities of of the most exclusive neighborhoods its old-fashioned charm while proDoraville, Lawrenceville and Snellville. in Metro Atlanta and is home to viding contemporary convenience.

The median value of homes in 2006, some of the best golf courses and Only 35 miles from downtown Ataccording to the Census Bureau, was private tennis clubs. There are lanta, Suwanee is close to big-city numerous parks for recreation and attractions, business districts and $193,100. participatory sports, including shopping. Many antique shops and Bunten Road Park and “Shorty” historic structures, including severHowell Park. Two major malls, al Victorian and regional farm-style Gwinnett Place and Northpoint, homes, are located near downtown are located near Duluth. The Suwanee. N Southeastern Railway Museum, For more counties and neighborhood Amidst the pristine setting of which preserves and operates old information, visit our Web site at Gwinnett County, Duluth has some railroad equipment, is a must-see www.newcomeratlanta.com

Mall of Georgia

QUICK INFO

Neighborhoods

Duluth

46 | Newcomer Magazine | www.newcomeratlanta.com

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upcomingEVENTS

Exhibits & Events Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival, Blackburn Park The Whiskey Gentry, Humming House, The Southern Gothic and more perform at this twoday festival that also features an arts and crafts market, a children’s village, a 5K run and more.

April 2-3, www.brookcherryfest.org.

The Market Day, Newnan

Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Fox Theatre

Theater & Concerts Beauty and the Beast, Center for Puppetry Arts Experience this beloved fairy tale as you’ve never seen it before, brought to life by the skilled puppeteers of the Center for Puppetry Arts!

April 7-May 22, 404-873-3391, www.centerforpuppetryarts.com.

Born for This: The BeBe Winans Story, Alliance Theatre This world premiere production follows BeBe and CeCe Winans, youngest siblings of the Winans gospel and R&B family dynasty, who experience a culture shock when they’re invited to join televangelists Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker on their famous television show.

April 13-May 15. 404-733-5000, www.alliancetheatre.org.

Into the Woods, Aurora Theatre This production of the Tony Award-winning musical features a modern twist on popular fairy tale characters, with music from legendary composer Stephen Sondheim. Through April 17,

PHOTO: Joan Marcus

On the first Saturday of every month, April through December, enjoy a variety of handmade, homemade and homegrown products created by local artisans, artists and farmers.

Lisa Kelly, Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater

Duluth Rotary Car Show, Duluth Town Green View classic antiques, foreign sports cars, hot rods, muscle cars and more at this familyfriendly event complete with food, raffles and other fun activities. April 9, www.duluthga.net.

Keeper for a Day: Hoofstock and Carnivores, Zoo Atlanta

The Irish singer, a former member of the group Celtic Woman, performs. May 7, amphitheater.org.

Find out what it takes to be a zookeeper with this exciting new program focusing on Zoo Atlanta’s hooved residents: giraffes, bongos, zebras and more! April 16, 404-624-9453,

The Mikado, Conant Performing Arts Center The Capitol City Opera Company presents Gilbert and Sullivan’s light-hearted comic operetta at Oglethorpe University. May 20-22,

www.zooatlanta.org.

www.ccityopera.com.

Spring Gala, St. Regis Atlanta

The Monkees, Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater

Celebrate Holy Spirit Preparatory School’s 20xth anniversary at this gala event, a fundraiser for the school’s Teachers’ Continuing Education Fund and Teachers’ Children Tuition Assistance Fund. April 23, www.hspgala.org.

The famed pop-rock group, anchored by founding members Mickey Dolenz and Peter Tork, performs in celebration of its 50th anniversary. May 21, www.amphitheater.org.

Fayette County Earth Day Festival, Peachtree City

Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Fox Theatre

Enjoy educational exhibits, green market vendors, entertainment, crafts, food and more.

The Tony and Grammy Award-winning Broadway hit, about the early life and career of the groundbreaking singer-songwriter, comes to Atlanta for a limited engagement. May 24-29,

April 23, www.fayettecountyearthday.org.

2016 Spring Chicken Festival, Downtown Gainesville

855-285-8499, www.foxtheatre.org.

Enjoy a chicken cook-off featuring 25 competing teams. This highly anticipated event also features a 5K chicken run, a parade and more.

678-226-6222, www.auroratheatre.com.

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Holy Spirit Preparatory School

Food Truck Fridays, Downtown Duluth

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PHOTO: Dustin Grau Photography

April 30, www.downtowngainesville.org.

Enjoy a production of this hit Broadway musical, performed by Holy Spirit Prep’s performing arts students. The event takes place at the Upper School Auditorium. April 28-30, www.holyspiritprep.org.

April 2 & May 7, www.mainstreetnewnan.com.

Patriotic Craft Week, Interactive Neighborhood for Kids Celebrate Memorial Day by creating crafts that display your love of your country. May 23-29, 770-536-1900, www.inkfun.org.

Frida and Diego: Passion, Politics, and Painting, High Museum of Art

World War II Heritage Days, Peachtree City This community event brings together re-enactors, World War II veterans, military vehicles, vintage warbirds and exhibits for the whole family. The event is held at the Dixie Wing Historical Airpower Facility at Falcon Field. April 30-May 1, www.wwiidays.org.

Food Truck Fridays, Downtown Duluth Enjoy exotic flavors from mobile vendors while enjoying live music and other fun activities every Friday. The first and third Fridays also feature an outdoor movie screening at Flicks on the Bricks. May 6, 13, 20 & 27, www.duluthga.net.

Suwanee Farmers Market, Town Center Every Saturday May through October, browse locally grown produce, honey, baked goods and more. May 7, 14, 21 & 28, www.suwanee.com.

Food Truck Tuesday, Lilburn City Park Enjoy dinner and dessert from your choice of mobile food vendors, as well as live music.

May 10, www.cityoflilburn.com.

Fast Track 5K, Downtown Duluth Come out for an exhilarating morning race presented by the Southeastern Railway Museum. This event is a certified qualifier for the Peachtree Road Race. May 27, 770-476-2013, www.duluthga.net.

Mother’s Day Craft Week, Interactive Neighborhood for Kids

Suwanee Food Truck Fridays, Town Center Park This popular event returns, with great food and live music. There will be no Food Truck Friday in July. Through October, www.duluthga.net.

The LEGO Movie 4D: A New Adventure, LEGOLAND Discovery Center Your favorite LEGO Movie characters reunite in this brand-new story, which you can only see at LEGOLAND Discovery Centers!

Ongoing, 404-848-9252, www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/atlanta.

A Short Drive Away Pickens Azalea Festival, Pickens, S.C. Celebrate the blooming of the azaleas as the streets of this charming town fill with arts and food vendors, great live music and a classic car cruise-in. April 15-16, www.pickesazaleafestival.com.

Tour de Falls, DuPont State Recreational Forest See the sights of High Falls, Triple Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and Lake Julia, located between Hendersonville and Brevard, North Carolina.

May 7-8, 828-877-6527, www.dupontforest.com.

Artisphere, Greenville, S.C.

Children are invited to create beautiful crafts for mom. May 2-8, 770-536-1900, www.inkfun.org.

Enjoy countless demonstrations, exhibits and live performances at this annual celebration of Greenville’s visual and performing arts community. May 13-15, www.artisphere.org.

Moonlight Movie, Lilburn City Park

Rhythm & Brews, Hendersonville, N.C.

Bring a blanket or lawn chair to enjoy a screening of the family classic Aladdin under the stars. The movie begins at dusk. May 27,

Enjoy a free concert at the Azalea parking lot along King Street in downtown Hendersonville. May 19, www.downtownhendersonville.org.

www.cityoflilburn.com.

Mystery of the Mayan Medallion, Children’s Museum of Atlanta Budding archaeologists will have fun learning about ancient Maya while searching for a priceless medallion at this interactive exhibit. Through May 31, 404-659-5437, www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org.

Pirate Adventure Island, LEGOLAND Discovery Center Construct your own pirate ship and set sail through an aquatic obstacle course at this exciting new attraction! Ongoing, 404-848-9252, www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/atlanta.

Palmetto State Chili Cook-Off, Fountain Inn, S.C. Come taste some excellent chili at this event sponsored by the International Chili Society.

Enjoy food and sponsor booths, a beer and wine corral, arts and crafts vendors, children’s activities and live entertainment. May 28, www.palmettostatechili.com.

Garden Jubilee, Hendersonville, N.C. Selected by the Southeast Tourism Society as a “Top 20 Event,” this lawn and garden show with more than 200 vendors selling plants, lawn furniture, garden tools, yard art, jewelry and much more. May 28-29, www.visithendersonvillenc.org. www.newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 49

hiddenATLANTA

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

I

magine a place where children can design giant castles, explore music from around the world, learn how to use tools, visit six continents, launch a rocket or even operate a fork lift—all in one place! Welcome to the Children’s Museum of Atlanta, which aims to enhance learning through fun, hands-on activities for kids from toddlers through elementary school.

The downtown museum, a favorite of Atlanta children since its permanent facility opened in 2003, recently underwent an $8.2 million facelift, adding several exciting new exhibits.

The renovation includes a new mezzanine level

By Cady Schulman where children can learn about robotics and the human body; the Gateway to the World exhibit, a two-story structure that lets kids climb through the layers of the earth and learn about the continents; and Tools for Solutions, which helps children learn about building, construction and woodworking, and even allows them to use real tools and materials.

There’s also Fundamentally Food, an exciting space that teaches kids how food is grown and allows them to pretend they work on a farm, in a diner or in a grocery store—which has proven to be a particular favorite among visitors, says Karen Kelly, the museum’s director of exhibits and education. The museum also features an art studio that encourages kids to explore music and visual arts, and a theater space.

For toddlers who may not be old enough for some of these exhibits, there’s Leaping Into Learning— Toddler Zone, where younger visitors can investigate a magical forest, pretend to drive a car and climb around in a multi-level treehouse.

Once your budding explorers have made their way through these exhibits, they can unravel the Mystery of the Mayan Medallion. This fun exhibit, on display through Memorial Day, allows kids to unlock their inner Indiana Jones and search for a priceless medallion, sifting through clues left by an archaeological expedition. The interactive exhibit offers a creative way to learn about Mayan culture and spell their names in Mayan. There’s even an observatory for studying the Mayan constellations, and a biology field tent where kids can look at the different creepy-crawlies found in the Mayan jungle.

Tickets for the exhibit can be purchased online for a specific arrival time, which is highly recommended, especially on weekends, when the museum tends to sell out quickly.

For hours, ticket prices and other information about the Children’s Museum of Atlanta, call 404-659-5437 or visit childrensmuseumatlanta.org.

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PHOTOS: Jeff Roffman

A World of Imagination and Discovery

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